Every 30 seconds, a lower limb is lost due to diabetes-related complications.
That comes to 2,880 legs and feet every day.

Diabetes is an epidemic of national proportions, and currently affects nearly
24 million Americans or 8% of the U.S. population. Nearly 11 percent of
Hispanic Americans aged 20 years or older have diabetes. Mexican
Americans, the largest Hispanic subgroup, are almost two times as likely to
have diabetes as non-Hispanic whites. The prevalence of diabetes is also at
least two to four times higher among Hispanic American women than among
non-Hispanic white women.

Unfortunately, many people with diabetes, and those at risk, are not aware
of the common complications associated with the disease. Diabetes has
many systemic complications affecting your eyes, kidneys, and
cardiovascular system to name a few. In the lower extremities and feet,
diabetes can lead to vascular disease (poor circulation) and neuropathic
disease (nerve damage and poor sensation). Approximately 60-70% of
people with diabetes will have a mild to severe form of diabetic nerve
damage which increases the risk of diabetic foot ulceration. Studies have
shown that diabetic foot ulcerations are a contributing factor in 85% of
diabetic lower extremity amputations.

A simple foot exam can reveal the first signs and symptoms of diabetes and
identify more serious factors that could potentially lead to further
complications. Dr. Rivera has encountered many complex diabetic foot
problems and urges all diabetics to be evaluated by a Podiatrist at least once
a year.

For more information or to make an appointment, please contact Dr. Jose A.
Rivera at (512) 477-8853 or visit www.footandankledocs.com.